Switzerland is your next destination and you want to explore its roads and trails in full endurance mode? Here are route ideas from our ambassadors Marine and Jonathan to treat yourself in the mountains or out on the tarmac.
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Rocher de la Naye from Montreux, Trail Run
Even if the route could be even more spectacular with a section through the gorges (currently closed), Rocher de la Naye still delivers an exceptional panorama. A summit above 2,000 m with jaw-dropping views over Lake Geneva.
Plan on a 28 km outing that is pure eye candy, with plenty of options to tweak the distance and elevation gain. For the descent, a rack railway brings you back down to Montreux. Another option is to drop to the Haut-de-Caux station, stop at Le Coucou for a drink on the terrace, then hop on the train down to Montreux. You can also start from Caux if you want an easier approach, with the option to drive up.
Dent de Jaman from Caux, Trail Run
From the same area as the first route, Dent de Jaman is another great trail running option. At the top, the view over the mountains and the lake will make you forget those 1,300 m of climbing.
Just like the first route, you can make this run more accessible by starting from Montreux or by parking in Caux.
A very well waymarked route with loads of possible variations. It is popular though, so it is best to avoid on bright, sunny Sundays.
Dent de Jaman is fairly exposed, so it is not recommended if you are prone to vertigo. You will want sure footing. The alpine garden at Rocher de la Naye is well worth the detour.
You can also add the Jaman via ferrata up to Rochers-de-Naye to make this trail session truly unique. There is a restaurant at the top for a solid refuel. If you are feeling strong, you can keep going a little past the restaurant to reach the true summit.
La Barillette from Nyon, Road Cycling
It is the little Swiss Ventoux. A brilliant challenge for climbers, with a panoramic payoff at the top.
Allow around 5 km from Nyon to Gingins, where the official start is. Then it is 12.7 km of climbing at 7.7% average gradient, 12.8% max, for 977 m of elevation gain. The road snakes through the forest, with a beautiful shift in flora typical of the Jura.
The road is one-way, which is ideal for cyclists.
You top out at 1,523 m and can spot La Dle and its striking ridgeline along the way. A big antenna welcomes you at the summit, and it is worth taking a few minutes to soak up the scenery. The descent is fast and confidence-boosting thanks to the one-way road, but watch out for loose gravel.
Quick tip, swing by t te de course in Nyon, the cyclists HQ, for a well-earned recovery snack. Then do not hesitate to dip your tired legs in Lake Geneva for a proper cooldown.
Also check out our route ideas in Lyon, Annecy and Aix-les-Bains.